An imposing pile of stones overlooks the Bay of Palma, just a few metres from the sea, which contrasts with the intense blue of the Mediterranean: rock against water, firmness against instability, faith against uncertainty. Saint Mary’s Cathedral in Palma (locally known as ‘La Seu’) has been the city’s iconic image for nearly eight centuries, when King James I of Aragon ordered that the Madina Mayurqa mosque be knocked down and a large temple devoted to Saint Mary be built in its place. It was one of his first decisions after conquering Majorca for the Christian kingdoms, thus keeping his vow to the virgin for saving him from the strong storm which battered the ships of the Crown of Aragon heading towards the island. The result was this beautiful Mediterranean Gothic cathedral, which was built over three centuries, although with subsequent changes and expansions. The building has set several records and is full of surprises which we will now reveal.
After the conquest of Mallorca in 1229, King James I envisioned a grand cathedral to replace the island’s main mosque. However, for several years, the existing structure continued to serve as a place of Christian worship. It was not until around 1300, under the reign of his son, James II, that construction began on an entirely new Gothic cathedral. The first section completed was the Royal Chapel, now the resting place of the island’s former monarchs. The cathedral’s construction spanned over 300 years, with its consecration finally taking place in 1601.
One of La Seu’s defining characteristics is its architectural layout, which follows a basilica-style floor plan rather than the traditional Latin cross seen in many Gothic cathedrals. The vast interior is supported by towering, slender columns, and the central nave reaches an astonishing height of 44 meters, ranking among the tallest in Europe.
The cathedral is also known for its luminous atmosphere, as light streams through its 87 stained-glass windows and seven stunning rose windows, earning it the title of the “Cathedral of Light.” The ornate interior is predominantly Baroque, with 16 chapels housing exquisite altarpieces. One of the most renowned is the Corpus Christi altarpiece by Jaume Blanquer, a striking portrayal of the Last Supper.
Unlike most cathedrals, La Seu’s main entrance, the Mirador Portal, does not face the city but overlooks the Mediterranean, creating a dramatic visual contrast. This entrance is framed by an impressive pointed arch and features a beautifully sculpted relief of the Last Supper. On the opposite side, the Almoina Portal is adorned with a finely crafted angel figure, created by Gothic master builder Guillem Sagrera.
The Main Portal, completed in 1601 in Renaissance style, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, featuring an intricate depiction of the Immaculate Conception surrounded by symbolic motifs.
The most stunning and symbolic feature of La Seu is undoubtedly its magnificent rose window, often referred to as the “Gothic Eye.” Measuring an impressive 13.8 meters in diameter, it holds the title of the largest Gothic rose window in the world. Positioned above the high altar rather than the main façade—an uncommon placement—this masterpiece was crafted in the 16th century.
Comprising 1,236 intricately arranged stained-glass pieces, the window forms a perfect Star of David, bathing the cathedral’s nave in a kaleidoscope of colored light. Over the centuries, the glass has been replaced multiple times, most notably after damage sustained during the Spanish Civil War.
Adding to its uniqueness, La Seu features a second, smaller rose window on its western façade, which, together with the main window, creates a rare and breathtaking light phenomenon. Twice a year—on February 2nd (Candlemas) and November 11th (Saint Martin’s Day)—the morning sun aligns perfectly with the cathedral’s structure, projecting the colorful light of the large rose window directly beneath the smaller one, forming a striking figure-eight pattern. Known as the Festival of Light, this spectacle draws visitors eager to witness this magical interplay of light and architecture.
Throughout its history, La Seu has undergone several renovations, but none were as transformative as those led by renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Between 1904 and 1914, at the request of Bishop Pere Joan Campins, Gaudí reimagined the cathedral’s interior, shifting the choir from the central nave to the chancel, designing nine new stained-glass windows, and reopening walled-up windows to enhance the natural illumination.
He also introduced new furnishings and created an elaborate baldachin over the high altar—a striking heptagonal structure adorned with a sculpted crucifix, the Virgin Mary, and Saint John. However, the final version of this piece was never completed, as Gaudí abandoned the project following a dispute with the contractor.
In 2007, acclaimed Mallorcan artist Miquel Barceló unveiled his ambitious intervention in the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament. His large-scale polychrome ceramic mural, inspired by the biblical miracle of the loaves and fishes, brings a contemporary yet deeply spiritual dimension to the cathedral. Today, this masterpiece stands as one of La Seu’s most captivating modern additions, merging centuries of artistic evolution into one extraordinary space.
La Seu welcomes visitors throughout the week, with hours varying by season:
Please note that the cathedral is closed on certain public holidays, including All Saints’ Day (November 1), December 25, and December 31.
Admission Fees
Residents and natives of the Diocese of Mallorca can enjoy free visits every Friday by obtaining a ticket at the cathedral’s ticket office and providing proof of residence or origin.
Ticket Purchase
Tickets can be purchased directly at the cathedral’s ticket office or online through authorized vendors. To ensure a seamless experience and avoid queues, it’s advisable to book in advance. You can purchase tickets online here.
Notable Features
Visiting La Seu offers profound insight into Mallorca’s cultural and religious heritage, blending historical architecture with modern artistic expressions. It’s an essential experience for any traveler to the island.
Location: In front of the Almudaina Royal Palace
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